Devices and methods for skin treatment

ABSTRACT

According to some embodiments, a system for treating skin includes a handpiece assembly comprising a tip and a main body portion, the main body portion comprising an interior cavity and at least one canister configured to store at least one of a treatment material and a waste material. The treatment material and/or the waste material is in fluid communication with the tip.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/344,357 filed Nov. 4, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/620,376 filed Sep. 14, 2012 and issued on Nov.8, 2016 as U.S. Pat. No. 9,486,615, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/346,582 filed Dec. 30, 2008 and issued onJan. 1, 2013 as U.S. Pat. No. 8,343,116, which claims the prioritybenefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/019,196 filed Jan. 4, 2008 and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/022,201 filed Jan. 18, 2008. The entireties of all of the foregoingare hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND Field

This application relates in general to the field of skin treatment, andmore specifically to apparatuses and methods for treating a person'sskin.

Description of the Related Art

Abrasion of the outer layer or epidermis of the skin is desirable tosmooth or blend scars, blemishes, or other skin conditions that may becaused by, for example, acne, sun exposure, and aging. Standardtechniques used to abrade the skin have generally been separated intotwo fields referred to as dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Bothtechniques remove portions of the epidermis called the stratum corneum,which the body interprets as a mild injury. The body then replaces thelost skin cells, resulting in a new outer layer of skin. Additionally,despite the mild edema and erythema associated with the procedures, theskin looks and feels smoother because of the new outer layer of skin.

Dermabrasion refers to a procedure in which the surface of the skin isremoved due to mechanical rubbing by a handpiece with an abrasiveelement that is often in the form of a burr, wheel, or disc. Thisprocess tends to be painful and messy. In fact, the procedure issometimes painful enough to require a local anesthetic. Dermabrasionleaves the skin red and raw-looking. The removed skin can take severalmonths to regrow and heal. Recent efforts have led to the use of lasersinstead of abrasive elements, which have resulted in less bleeding, butthe pain and mess remains.

Efforts have been made to decrease the mess caused by the process waste,such as removed skin and blood, by adding a suction element. As theprocess waste is drawn into the suction opening, skin that has not beenremoved is also pulled against the grit surrounding the suction opening,so the procedure remains fairly messy due to the abrasion that takesplace outside of the handpiece by the grit.

Microdermabrasion refers generally to a procedure in which the surfaceof the skin is removed due to mechanical rubbing by a handpiece emittinga stream of sand or grit. For example, a handpiece can be used to directan air flow containing tiny crystals of aluminum oxide, sodium chloride,or sodium bicarbonate. The momentum of the grit tends to wear away twoto three cell layers of the skin with each pass of the handpiece.Alternatively, new “crystal-free” microdermabrasion techniques utilize adiamond-tipped handpiece without a stream of grit.

Efforts to add a suction element have been more successful inmicrodermabrasion than in dermabrasion because the handpiece applyingthe stream of grit is more controllable to a localized area. That is, asthe removed skin is drawn into the suction opening, skin that has notbeen removed is also pulled towards the handpiece where it is treatedwith the grit stream, allowing for simultaneous local treatment andsuction.

Microdermabrasion removes moisture from the skin, so the procedure isalways followed by the application of moisturizing creams. However,similar to topical application of moisturizing creams prior tomicrodermabrasion, the moisturizing elements only work as deep as theactive ingredients can passively migrate through the remainingepidermis.

SUMMARY

According to some embodiments, a system for treating skin includes ahandpiece assembly comprising a tip and a main body portion, the mainbody portion comprising an interior cavity and a canister configured tostore at least one treatment or waste material. The treatment or wastematerial is in fluid communication with the tip.

In some embodiments, the system further comprises a fluid transferdevice for transferring the treatment or waste material to and from thecanister. In other embodiments, the system further includes a conduitconfigured to place the canister in fluid communication with the tip. Instill other arrangements, the conduit is routed within the interiorcavity of the main body portion. In another embodiment, the conduitcomprises at least two passages with each passage configured to transfera different material to or from the canister.

According to some embodiments, the handpiece assembly and the canisterform a unitary structure. In alternative embodiments, the handpieceassembly and the canister are substantially separated. In oneembodiment, the canister comprises at least one compartment which may beconfigured to contain a treatment fluid and/or waste materials. In otherembodiments, the treatment fluid comprises a serum. In yet otherarrangements, the tip of the handpiece assembly is removable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention are described with reference to drawings of certain preferredembodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, thepresent invention. The drawings include twenty-eight (28) figures. It isto be understood that the attached drawings are for the purpose ofillustrating concepts of the present invention and may not be to scale.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly for use ina skin treatment system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a conduitadapted for use in the handpiece assembly of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of thetubing of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly with aportion of the exterior surface removed to reveal an interior portion ofthe assembly according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a skin treatmentsystem according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a skin treatment systemcomprising a handpiece assembly and a canister according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a combination storage andwaste canister in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a combination storage andwaste canister in accordance with yet another embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of ahandpiece assembly;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a combinationstorage and waste canister configured to be used with the handpieceassembly of FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates one embodiment of the distal end of ahandpiece assembly having a tip that is configured to tilt or pivot;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge or other containercomprising a treatment fluid or other material according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a handpiece assembly orother portion of the treatment system configured to receive thecartridge or container of FIG. 10 ;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly accordingto another embodiment;

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a handpieceassembly configured to receive a cartridge or other container accordingto one embodiment;

FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of waste cartridge or containerconfigured for use with a skin treatment system according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly accordingto one embodiment;

FIG. 16 illustrates a cartridge or other container configured forplacement within a corresponding area of the handpiece assembly of FIG.15 ;

FIG. 17 illustrates a handpiece assembly in fluid communication with afluid transfer system and a waste canister according to one embodiment;

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment of a handpiece assembly;

FIG. 20A illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly in fluidcommunication with a waste canister in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 20B illustrates a top perspective view of one embodiment of aremovable tip adapted for placement on a handpiece assembly;

FIG. 20C illustrates a bottom perspective view of the removable tip ofFIG. 20B;

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of ahandpiece assembly;

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of a base charging memberconfigured to receive a handpiece assembly according to one embodiment;

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of a skin treatment systemcomprising a handpiece assembly and a base member having a wastecanister according to one embodiment; and

FIG. 24 illustrates a side elevation view of the system of FIG. 23 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a handpiece assembly 10 configuredfor use in a skin treatment system which may be used to perform one ormore treatments on a person's skin. In the depicted embodiment, thehandpiece assembly 10 comprises an outer housing 14 that can be graspedor otherwise manipulated by a user. As shown, the housing 14 can includea curved shape. In other embodiments, the shape, size and/or otherdetails regarding the housing 14 can vary as desired.

With continued reference to FIG. 1 , the handpiece assembly 10 caninclude a tip 20 that is configured to contact or substantially contactthe skin or other surface being treated. According to some embodiments,as illustrated in FIG. 1 , the tip 20 can be removable. Thus, the tip 20can be easily changed for cleaning, hygienic or other purposes. Forexample, depending on the type of skin treatment procedure beingperformed, a user can select a tip 20 having a specific pattern orfeatures along the distal end. Non-limiting examples of the varioustypes of tips 20 that may be attached to the handpiece assembly 10 aredisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/392,348, filed Mar. 29,2006, the entirety to which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

In arrangements where a removable tip 20 is used, the handpiece assembly10 can include an interface portion 30 along its distal end that isconfigured to securely receive the tip 20. In FIG. 1 , the interfaceportion 30 comprises an O-ring 40 or other sealing member to helpprevent or reduce the likelihood of leaks. In other embodiments, one ormore other types of gaskets or similar devices can be used, either inlieu of or in addition to an O-ring 40.

With continued reference to FIG. 1 , the interface portion 30 caninclude one or more openings 44, 46 or ports. In some embodiments, theseopenings 44, 46 are configured to transfer fluids and/or other materialsto and/or from the tip 20. For example, in the depicted embodiment, theinterface portion 30 comprises two fluid delivery openings 44 positionedalong the periphery and one fluid suction opening 46 positioned alongthe center of the handpiece assembly 10. In other embodiments, however,the number, location, spacing, shape, size and/or other details of theopenings 44, 46 can vary as desired or required.

One or more conduits 50 can be placed in fluid communication with theopenings 44, 46, and thus, at least a portion of the tip 20 of thehandpiece assembly 10. The conduits 50 can be configured to transfer(e.g., deliver, withdraw, etc.) fluids or other materials to and/or fromthe distal end of the handpiece assembly 10. As shown in FIG. 1 , theconduit 50 can be positioned at least partially within an interiorportion of a handpiece assembly 10. In the depicted embodiment, theconduit 50 extends out of the proximal end of the handpiece assembly 10.

FIG. 2A illustrates one embodiment of a conduit 50 that is configuredfor use in a handpiece assembly 10. As shown, the conduit 50 can includea delivery passage 54 and a suction passage 56. In other embodiments,the conduit 50 can comprise more or fewer passages, as desired orrequired by a particular application or use. In addition, the size,shape and other details of the passages 54, 56 can be different thanillustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The conduit 50 can comprise tubing, pipeand/or the like. Further, the conduit 50 can include one or more rigid,semi-rigid and/or flexible materials, such as, for example, rubber,plastic, other polymeric materials, other synthetic materials, metal orthe like.

With continued reference to FIG. 2A, the various passages 54, 56 of theconduit 50 can be co-molded or otherwise produced as a unitarystructure. In FIG. 2A, the passages 54, 56 are attached to each otheralong a portion of the conduit 50 and separated from each other alonganother portion of the conduit 50. According to some embodiments, theconduit 50 can be manufactured using extrusion or other productionmethod. In other arrangements, individual passages that connect to thehandpiece assembly 10 are separate members that may or may not beattached to one another. For example, in one embodiment, the passages54, 56 can comprise separate rubber tubing portions that are joined toeach other using adhesives, clips, tape, fasteners and/or one or moreother attachment methods or devices. The shape, size and/or otherdetails of the passages 54, 56 can be different than illustrated herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the handpieceassembly 10 of FIG. 1 with a portion of the outer housing 14 removed toreveal an interior area. As shown, an interior of the handpiece assembly10 can comprise one or more tabs 18, guides, other fasteners and/orother members that are shaped, sized and otherwise configured to receiveand secure one or more conduits 50 extending within the assembly 10. Byway of example, in FIG. 3 , a small portion of a conduit 50 is shown (inphantom) within one of the tabs 18. In the illustrated embodiment, thehandpiece assembly 10 includes a total of two tabs 18. However, thequantity, type, shape, size and/or other details of the tabs 18 or othermembers can vary. Further, the proximal end of the handpiece assembly 10can comprise an opening 16 or other slot through which a conduit 50and/or other items can extend.

With continued reference to FIG. 3 , the interface portion 30 of thehandpiece assembly 10 can include one or more ports 34, 36 that areconfigured to attach to passages 54, 56 of a conduit 50. For example, inFIG. 3 , the delivery passage 54 is shown (in phantom) as beingassociated with a first port 34 and the suction passage 56 is shown (inphantom) as being associated with a second port 36. In otherembodiments, a handpiece assembly 10 comprises more or fewer ports, asdesired or required. In addition, the size, shape, type and/or otherdetails of the ports can vary. In some embodiments, once the tubing 50is properly secured to the ports 34, 36 of the handpiece assembly, thedelivery passage 54 can be placed in fluid communication with the one ormore delivery openings 44. Likewise, the suction passage 56 can beplaced in fluid communication with the one or more suction openings 46.Consequently, one or more fluids or other materials can be selectivelytransferred (e.g., delivered to and/or removed from) the tip 20 of thehandpiece assembly 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the assembly 10 can be configured such that asingle port 36 can be in fluid communication with two or more openings46 located along a distal surface of the interface portion 30. In otherembodiments, a single opening along the distal surface of the interfaceportion 30 can be in fluid communication with two or more ports. Thus,the interface portion 30 can include one or more internal channels, flowsplitting devices, flow control valves and/or any other devices orfeatures that can selectively affect the flow of fluids therethrough.This can apply to delivery and/or suction ports and openings, as desiredor required by a particular application.

The use of a conduit 50 that extends within an interior cavity of thehandpiece assembly 10 can provide one or more advantages or benefits.For example, such designs can permit a user to easily remove, attach orreplace a conduit 50 between or during a treatment or procedure. Inaddition, contamination of an interior of the handpiece assembly 10 canbe reduced or eliminated because fluids or other substances transmittedthrough the handpiece assembly 10 are fully contained within thepassages 54, 56 of the conduit 50.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a skin treatmentsystem 6A. The depicted treatment system 6A comprises a handpieceassembly 10, a conduit 50, a fluid transfer device 70 (e.g., pump) influid communication with the conduit 50 and a canister 100 or othercontainer. As shown, the handpiece assembly 10 can include a tip 20 thatis adapted to contact and treat the skin S. A conduit 50 having adelivery passage 54 and a suction (e.g., removal) passage 56 can beattached to the handpiece assembly 10 and placed in fluid communicationwith the tip 20. In addition, a pump 70 or other fluid transfer devicecan be placed in fluid communication with the conduit 50 (e.g., thesuction passage 56) to assist in transferring fluids or other materialsto and/or from the tip 20.

With continued reference to FIG. 4 , the canister 100 or other containercan comprise a storage compartment 104 and a waste compartment 106. Inother arrangements, the canister 100 can include more or fewercompartments, as desired or required. For example, the canister 100 caninclude two or more storage compartments, each of which is configured tostore a different fluid and/or other treatment media. In someembodiments, the canister 100 comprises a unitary structure having oneor more baffles 105 or other dividing members to create two or moreseparate compartments 104, 106. However, in other embodiments, thesystem 6A comprises two or more separate canisters that are not part ofa unitary structure or that are not attached to each other.

In FIG. 4 , when the tip 20 is placed against the surface of the skin Sto be treated, a pump 70 or other fluid transfer device can be used todraw a treatment media (e.g., water, saline, other fluids, othermaterials, etc.) from the storage compartment 104 and through thedelivery passage 54. At the same time, the pump 70 can remove wastematerials from the treatment surface to the waste compartment 106 viathe suction passage 56. In other embodiments, one or more other methodsand/or devices for delivering and/or withdrawing fluid or othermaterials to and/or from the distal end of the handpiece assembly 10 canbe used.

As illustrated in FIG. 5 , a handpiece assembly 10 and a conduit 50 of atreatment system 6B can be placed in fluid communication with a canister100. The illustrated canister 100 comprises a base 101 and one or morecompartments 104, 106. As discussed, the canister 100 can include one ormore storage compartments 104 and/or waste compartments 106 that areseparated by a baffle 105 or other separation member. The variouscompartments 104, 106 can be placed in fluid communication with one ormore passages 54, 56 of the conduit 50 to selectively transfer fluidsand/or other materials to and/or from a handpiece assembly 10. Inaddition, the system 6B can include a pump or other fluid transferdevice (not shown). For example, in one embodiment, a pump is placedwithin or near the base 101. In other arrangements, the pump ispositioned in one or more other locations (e.g., external to the base101).

With continued reference to FIG. 5 , the canister 100 can include a lid102 or other cover member that permits a user to selectively access theinterior of the compartments 104, 106 for filling, emptying, cleaningand/or any other task. In some embodiments, the lid 102 comprises ahinge 110 or other device that facilitates accessing the interior of thevarious compartments 104, 106.

Another embodiment of a canister 200 is illustrated in FIG. 6A. In thedepicted arrangement, the canister 200 comprises a storage compartment204 and a waste compartment 206. As discussed, however, in otherembodiments, the canister 200 can comprise more or fewer compartments,as desired or required. The compartments 204, 206 can be separated by abaffle 205 or another separation member. In addition, the canister caninclude a removable lid 202 that permits a user to access the interiorof the compartments 204, 206. In FIG. 6A, each compartment 204, 206comprises a fitting 214, 216 or similar member to which conduits orpassages 54, 56 of a conduit (e.g., tubing, pipe, etc.) can attach.Thus, the conduit can be placed in fluid communication with the variouscompartments 204, 206 of the canister 200. In other embodiments, thefittings 214, 216 or ports can be located in one or more other locationsof the canister 200 (e.g., the bottom, side, etc.).

A different embodiment of a canister 200A is illustrated in FIG. 6B. Aswith other embodiments, the illustrated canister 200A comprises a supplycompartment 204A and a waste compartment 206A that are separated by abaffle 205A or other member. As shown, the canister 200A can comprise abase 201A and a lid 202A or other cover member. In addition, thecompartments 204A, 206A can comprise one or more internal channels orconduits 274A, 276A that facilitate in the transfer of fluids or othermaterials into and/or out of the canister 200A. In some embodiments, thecanister 200A is configured to move fluids to and from a handpieceassembly 10 in a manner similar to what is schematically described inFIG. 4 .

FIG. 7 illustrates a handpiece assembly 310 according to anotherembodiment. In the depicted arrangement, the handpiece assembly 310comprises a main body portion 314 and a tip 320 that is configured tocontact and treat the skin. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment,the proximal end 311 of the assembly 310 includes a canister 400. Thus,unlike other arrangements disclosed herein, the depicted canister 400 isphysically attached to and incorporated into the handpiece assembly 310.In one embodiment, the canister 400 can be separated and/or attached tothe main body portion 314 of the handpiece assembly 310 by manipulatinga release tab 401, button or other feature. One or more gaskets, O-ringsor other members (not shown) can be positioned between the main bodyportion 314 and the canister 400 in order to reduce the likelihood ofleaks.

Accordingly, a user can easily and conveniently handle and manipulatethe handpiece assembly 310 illustrated in FIG. 7 (or variations thereof)because the canister 400 and the main body portion 314 of the assembly310 are self contained within a single structure. In some embodiments,the handpiece assembly 310 includes an internal pump or other fluidtransfer device within its main body portion 314. Alternatively, a fluidtransfer device and/or any other component can be positioned outside ofthe handpiece assembly 310 and/or at any other location. Such componentscan be attached to or separate from the handpiece assembly, as desiredor required.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a canister 400 configured for usewith a self-contained handpiece assembly 310 such as the one asillustrated in FIG. 7 . As shown, the canister 400 can comprise adelivery compartment 404 in which one or more treatment fluids or othermaterials can be placed. In addition, the canister 400 can comprise awaste compartment 406 to which fluids, exfoliated skin and/or othersubstances withdrawn from the treatment surface can be directed. As withother embodiments disclosed herein, the canister 400 can comprise abaffle 405 or other separation member. In other embodiments, completelyseparate canisters can be attached to the proximal end of the handpieceassembly 310 (e.g., one or more delivery canisters, a waste canister,etc.).

With continued reference to FIG. 8 , the canister 400 can comprise oneor more ports 414, 416 or other fittings through which fluids or othersubstances can be transferred (e.g., between the tip 320 and thecanister 400). According to some embodiments, the canister 400 isconfigured to lock to the main body portion 314 using one or moredevices or methods, such as, for example, locking tabs, clasps, magneticconnectors, other fasteners and/or the like.

Any of the embodiments of a handpiece assembly disclosed herein cancomprise a tip that swivels, rotates and/or otherwise moves relative toa main body portion. Such a feature can facilitate moving andmanipulating a handpiece assembly along a person's skin surface during atreatment procedure. This can be particularly significant when thetreatment surface is highly contoured.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9 , a handpiece assembly 510comprises a joint 515, hinge or other movement mechanism (e.g., balljoint or mechanism, swivel joint or mechanism, etc.). In the illustratedarrangement, the joint 515 is generally located between the tip 520 andthe main body portion 514 of the handpiece assembly 510. As illustratedin phantom, such a joint 515 or other mechanism can advantageouslypermit a tip 520 to be moved relative to the adjacent body portion 514.For example, in some embodiments, the body portion 514 can be movedrelative to the tip 520 between a first position 514A and a secondposition 514B. In some embodiments, the passages of a conduit (notshown) are configured to pass through the joint 514 (e.g., for passagesto be in fluid communication from the main body portion 514 to the tip520 through the joint 515) to permit fluids or other materials to betransferred to and/or from the working surface 522 of the tip 520 duringthe operation of the handpiece assembly 510.

With respect to any of the embodiments discussed and/or illustratedherein, the handpiece assembly, pump or other fluid transfer deviceand/or any other component of the skin treatment system can be poweredusing one or more power sources. For example, in some embodiments, abattery (e.g., disposable, rechargeable, etc.), an AC power source(e.g., with or without a transformer) or any other power device orsource can be connected, attached or otherwise supplied to the desiredcomponent or subcomponent of the treatment system. In addition, thevarious components or subcomponents can include one or more controllers,electrical and/or instrumentation connections, ports and/or the like, asdesired or required for the proper operation of the treatment system.

According to one embodiment, the self-contained handpiece assembly 310illustrated in FIG. 7 is configured to include a rechargeable battery.The handpiece assembly 310 can be sized, shaped and otherwise configuredto be placed in a docking station when not in use. The docking stationcan be configured to recharge the battery of the assembly 310. In otherembodiments, however, a handpiece assembly can be powered by AC or DCpower (e.g., connected to a power cable or the like).

FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a cartridge 500 containing a serumand/or another fluid or material used during a skin treatment procedure.As shown, the cartridge 500 can comprise a membrane 504 or other memberto seal or substantially seal the internal contents of the cartridge500. In addition, the cartridge 500 can include a locking ear 506 orother feature or member that is configured to mate with a correspondingportion of the handpiece assembly. In some embodiments, such a lockingear 506 is sized, shaped and otherwise configured to align with a slotor other opening in a docking area of the handpiece assembly. Once thelocking ear 506 or other feature is properly aligned with and pushedinto a corresponding recess or other portion of the handpiece assembly,the cartridge 500 can be rotated or otherwise moved to secure it to thehandpiece assembly. In other arrangements, a cartridge include two ormore locking ears 506 or other features that are configured to mate withcorresponding areas or portions of the handpiece assembly.

With further reference to FIG. 10 , the cartridge 500 can include anO-ring 502 or other sealing member to help prevent fluids and/or othersubstances from leaking once the cartridge 500 is properly insertedwithin the handpiece assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, thecartridge 500 comprises a generally cylindrical body with a relativelynarrow neck portion. However, it will be appreciated that the shape,size and/or any other details or characteristics of the cartridge 500can be different than illustrated and discussed herein to suit aparticular application or use.

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a docking portion or area510 of a handpiece assembly with a cartridge 500 being secured therein.As illustrated, the docking area 510 of the handpiece assembly caninclude a hollow tube 516 or other puncturing member that is configuredto penetrate the membrane 504 when the cartridge 500 is securelypositioned within the docking area 510. As discussed, in order toprevent or reduce the likelihood of leaks, the nozzle of the cartridgeand/or the docking area 510 can comprise an O-ring 502 and/or anothersealing member.

According to some embodiments, once the membrane 504 is punctured, theinternal contents of the cartridge 500 can be in fluid communicationwith the tip (not shown) of a handpiece assembly. Thus, the hollow tube516 or other penetrating member can access the internal contents of thecartridge 500 so they can be transferred through the body of thehandpiece assembly to a working surface (e.g., tip). The fluids and/orother substances can be conveyed to a tip or other working surface ofthe handpiece assembly by gravity flow, using a pump or other fluidtransfer device and/or the like. In some arrangements, as illustrated inFIG. 10 , the cartridge 500 includes a locking member 506 (e.g., tab)that is configured to mate with a corresponding portion of the dockingarea 510 when properly inserted therein.

The membrane 504 of the cartridge 500 can include any flexible,semi-rigid or rigid materials that is adapted to be punctured by ahollow tube 516 or other member when the cartridge 500 is secured to ahandpiece assembly. In some embodiments, the membrane comprises rubber,plastic and/or the like. In addition, the membrane 504 can be configuredto be re-sealable once the cartridge 500 is removed from the handpieceassembly.

FIGS. 12-14 illustrate another embodiment of a handpiece assembly 600adapted to treat the skin. The depicted assembly 600 comprises a mainbody portion 602, a working tip 604 and a docking area or port 605 inwhich a cartridge 610 and a waste canister 620 can be inserted. Such ahandpiece assembly 600, as with other embodiments disclosed herein, canbe an all-inclusive assembly that eliminates or reduces the need forother separate components. For example, the main body portion 602 cancomprise a vacuum pump or other fluid transfer device (not shown) tohelp deliver fluids and other treatment materials to the working tip 604and remove waste fluids, exfoliated skin and/or other materials to thewaste canister 620.

With reference to FIG. 13 , the handpiece assembly 600 can include adocking port or area 605 that is configured to receive a cartridge 610.The cartridge can include one or more treatment fluids, substances orthe like. In some embodiments, as discussed herein with respect to theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 , the cartridge 610 comprises amembrane (not shown in FIG. 13 ) that is configured to substantiallyseal the internal contents of the cartridge 610. The docking area 605can include a puncturing member 606 (e.g., hollow tube, syringe, needle,etc.) that is sized, shaped, positioned and otherwise configured tobreak the membrane or seal so that the contents of the cartridge 610 canbe placed in fluid communication with the main body portion 602 and thetip 604 of the handpiece assembly 600. The cartridge 610 and dockingarea 605 can include one or more mating features (e.g., threads, lockingtabs, snap connections, other mechanical fasteners, etc.) to ensure thatthe cartridge 610 is secured to the handpiece assembly 600 during use.

As illustrated in the cutaway cross-sectional view of FIG. 13 , thedocking area 605 can be shaped, sized and otherwise configured toreceive a nozzle 612 or other protruding member of the cartridge 610.Accordingly, the hollow tube 606 or other puncturing member of the mainbody portion 602 can penetrate a membrane or other sealing memberdisposed along the end of the nozzle 612 once the cartridge 610 issecured within the docking area 605. In order to prevent or reduce thelikelihood of leaks of fluids and/or other substances contained withinthe cartridge 610, the nozzle 612 can comprise one or more O-rings 614or other sealing members.

The handpiece assembly 600 illustrated in FIGS. 12-14 includes agenerally rectangular shape. However, in other embodiments, the shape,size and/or other characteristics or properties of the handpieceassembly 600 can vary, as desired or required by a particularapplication or use.

FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of a waste canister 620 that isconfigured to attach to a proximal end of the handpiece assembly 600.The waste canister 620 can be configured to collect exfoliated skin,used serums and other fluids and/or the like that are drawn away from aperson's skin during treatment. As shown, the waste canister 620 cancomprise a port 622 that is adapted to engage and secure to one or morereceiving areas of the main body portion 602 of the handpiece assembly600. As with the cartridge 610, the waste canister 620 can include oneor more mating features with the adjacent portion of the handpieceassembly 600. Further, one or more O-rings 622 or other sealing memberscan be used to prevent or reduce the likelihood of leaks between thewaste canister 620 and the main body portion 602 of the handpieceassembly 600.

With continued reference to FIG. 12 , the handpiece assembly can includea port 608 or other connection for a power source or other electricalconnection. In some embodiments, the port 608 is configured to receivean AC adapter or transformer (e.g., 12 volt charger). In otherembodiments, the handpiece assembly 600 comprises a rechargeable batteryor other power source (not shown) which may be recharged via the port608.

FIGS. 15-17 illustrate another embodiment of a handpiece assembly 700that comprises, among other things, a main body portion 702, a workingtip 704 and a docking area 705 for receiving a cartridge 720. As shownin FIG. 16 , the cartridge 720 can comprise a locking ear 722 or otherprotruding member that is sized, shaped and otherwise configured to helpmate and secure the cartridge 720 to the docking area 705. For example,the docking area 705 can include a recess 706 (e.g., turn lock feature)that is adapted to receive the locking ear 722 or other member of thecartridge 720. Once the cartridge 720 is aligned with and inserted intothe recess 706, it can be rotated or otherwise moved to temporarilysecure the cartridge 720 to the main body portion 702 of the assembly700.

When the contents of the cartridge 720 have been emptied and/or when auser wishes to use fluids and/or materials contained with a differentcartridge 720, the process by which the cartridge 720 was secured withinthe docking area 705 can be reversed. For example, the cartridge 720 canbe rotated so that the locking ear 722 or other protruding membergenerally aligns with the recess 706 to permit the cartridge 720 to beremoved. As with other embodiments, the illustrated cartridge 720 caninclude an O-ring 726 or other sealing member to prevent or reduce thelikelihood of leaks.

With continued reference to FIGS. 15-17 , for aesthetic, ease ofhandling and/or any other reason, the handpiece assembly 700 can includea tapered shape. As with any other embodiments disclosed herein, orvariations thereof, the handpiece assembly 700 can be designed withfinger grips or other features that facilitate a user to grip andmanipulate the handpiece assembly 700 during use. In addition, the outersurface of any of the embodiments of the handpiece assemblies discussedand/or illustrated herein (or variations thereof) can comprise one ormore durable materials that are configured to withstand the elements towhich they may be exposed. In some embodiments, the exposed surfaces ofa handpiece assembly comprise plastics, metals (e.g., stainless steel)and/or the like.

With continued reference to FIG. 17 , the handpiece assembly 700 can beplaced in fluid communication with a housing 740 and a waste canister730 via one or more conduits 710. As shown, the housing 740 can receivea removable waste canister 730 along its upper surface. Alternatively,the housing 740 can be adapted to receive one or more waste canisters730 at any other portion or location. In some embodiments, the canister730 can be advantageously removed from the housing 740 for emptying,cleaning and/or any other purpose. As with other embodiments disclosedherein, the housing 740 can comprise an internal and/or external pump orother fluid transfer device. Such a fluid transfer device can be used toremove waste fluids and/or other materials away from the tip 704 of thehandpiece assembly 700 (e.g., via a waste conduit 710), and in somearrangements, simultaneously draw treatment serums and other fluids fromthe canister 720 toward the tip 704 of the handpiece assembly 700.

The pump, other fluid transfer device and/or any other electriccomponent or features of the system can be operated by one or more powersources (e.g., AC, DC, rechargeable or disposable batteries, etc.). Inaddition, the handpiece assembly 700 and/or the housing 740 can includebuttons, dials and/or other members that permit a user to selectivelycontrol the operation during a treatment procedure.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate another embodiment of a handpiece assembly800 configured for use in a skin treatment system. Like in otherembodiments disclosed herein, the depicted handpiece assembly 800comprises a main body portion 802, a removable tip 810 and a receivingor docking area 805 for securely receiving a cartridge 820. As shown,the main body portion 802 of the handpiece assembly 800 can comprise aport 807 to which a conduit 830 or other channeling member may connect.According to some embodiments, the conduit 830 is placed in fluidcommunication with a vacuum pump or other fluid transfer device (notshown) for removing waste materials away from the treatment surface(e.g., tip 810).

As discussed herein in reference to other arrangements, the cartridge820 can include a nozzle portion with a locking ear 826 or otherprotruding member that is configured to engage and mate with acorresponding slot 806, recess and/or other feature of the docking area805. Further, the nozzle of the cartridge 820 can include an O-ring 828or other sealing member to prevent or reduce the likelihood of leakswhen fluids and/or other substances are being transferred from thecartridge 820 to the tip 810. In some embodiments, the end of the nozzleportion of the cartridge comprises a membrane or other member (notshown) that can be punctured or otherwise compromised by a hollow tube808, spike or other member when the cartridge 820 is secured within thedocking area 805.

Another embodiment of a skin treatment system 900 comprising a handpieceassembly 910, a replaceable cartridge 920 and a separate base member 940is illustrated in FIG. 20A. As shown, the handpiece assembly 910 cancomprise a main body portion 912 to which a cartridge 920 and aremovable tip 970 can be secured. In addition, the handpiece assembly910 can include a port 917 that is used to place the handpiece assembly910 in fluid communication with the base member 940 via one or moreconduits 930. As with other embodiments disclosed herein, the cartridge920 can be selectively secured to and/or removed from the main bodyportion 912 of the handpiece assembly. Thus, the cartridge 920 caninclude one or more locking ears, O-rings and/or the like.

In addition, the base member 940 can include a waste canister orcontainer 960 that is adapted to receive waste fluids and othersubstances. As with the cartridge 920, the waste canister 960 can beconfigured to be selectively secured to and/or removed from the basemember 940 for emptying, cleaning, replacement and/or any other purpose.

Further, in some embodiments, the base member 940 comprises one or morecontrols (e.g., ON-OFF switches, other switches, knobs and/or the like)for regulating the operation of the system. As shown, a power supply orother electrical connection 950 can be used to power the base member940, a vacuum pump or other fluid transfer device contained within thebase member 940 (or any other portion of the system) and/or any otherelectrical component or subcomponent of the system. Further, the basemember 940 can comprise a recessed area 946 along its lower portionwhich is configured to receive one or more conduits 930, power cablesand/or the like.

FIGS. 20B and 20C illustrate different views of one embodiment of aremovable tip 970 configured for placement on a handpiece assembly asdisclosed herein. As shown, the tip 970 can include a tip body portion973 and a tip skirt portion 972 extending along the bottom of the tipbody portion 973. The skirt portion 972 can include a plurality ofgripping members or other features (e.g., recesses, protrusions, etc.)to facilitate the handling of the tip 970.

A tip can be configured to slidably connect to the distal end and/or anyother portion of a handpiece assembly. For example, in some embodiments,the tip can be press fit onto the handpiece assembly. One or moreO-rings or other sealing members can be used between adjacent surfacesof the tip and the handpiece assembly to prevent or reduce thelikelihood of undesirable leaks. In other embodiments, a tip can besecured to a handpiece assembly using any other method or device, suchas, for example, a threaded connection, interlocking tabs, flanges orother members, other fasteners and/or the like. In still otherarrangements, the tip can be permanently or semi-permanently attached tothe handpiece assembly.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20B and 20C, the tip 970comprises one or more surfaces, elements and/or features along itsdistal end 971 that are configured to treat (e.g., exfoliate) skin. Suchtips can include one or more treatment elements, either in addition toor in lieu of abrasive elements. As used herein, “abrasive element” is abroad term and includes, without limitation, protruding elements,abrasive materials (e.g., grit, sandpaper-like material, other coarsematerials, etc.), roughened surfaces, contoured surfaces, surfaces withopenings, recesses or other features, brushes, blades, surfacesimpregnated with diamonds or other materials and/or the like. Further,as used herein, “treatment element” is a broad term and includes,without limitation, an abrasive element, massage elements or features,elements or features configured to moisturize or apply one or moretreatment agents or fluids, polishing or soothing elements or featuresand/or the like. As discussed, any embodiments of a tip for a handpieceassembly can comprise one or more treatment elements and/or abrasiveelements, as desired or required by a particular application.

As illustrated in FIGS. 20A and 20B, the tip 970 can include a lip 977or other ridge member along its outer periphery. The lip member 977 cangenerally define the periphery of the distal end 971 of the tip 970. Insome embodiments, when the tip 970 is positioned against the skin, thelip member 977 inhibits or substantially inhibits fluids or othermaterials from escaping a space generally defined between the tip 970and the adjacent skin surface.

With continued reference to FIGS. 20B and 20C, the tip 970 can include aplurality of protruding members 980 positioned along its distal end 971and within the interior of the lip member 977. The protruding members980 can be posts or other cylindrically-shaped objects. In someembodiments, the protruding members 980 comprise relatively sharp edges,which can be configured to remove skin. The protruding members 980 canhave relatively sharp planing blades. The plurality of protrudingmembers 980 can ablate or roughen a plurality of smaller sections of theskin being treated.

As illustrated, the outer diameter or other comparable dimension (e.g.,length, width, etc.) of the posts or other protruding members 980 canvary. In other arrangements, the diameter and/or other dimensions of theprotruding members can be similar or substantiality similar. The postsor other protruding members 980 can be located, spaced and otherwiseoriented along the distal end 971 of the tip 970 in any desired orrequired manner.

It will be appreciated that the size, shape, spacing, orientation,location and/or other properties of the protruding members 980 can bedifferent than illustrated and disclosed herein, as desired or requiredby a particular procedure or application. As discussed herein, the lipmember 977 of the tip 970 can help create an enclosed space generallydefined between the distal end 971 of the tip 970 and the skin surfacebeing treated. Therefore, according to some embodiments, the lip member977 extends above the top of the protruding members 980 so that theprotruding members are within the enclosed space during a treatmentprocedure. In other embodiments, the top surface of the lip 977 isgenerally aligned with the top surface of or below the protrudingmembers 980.

With reference to FIGS. 20B and 20C, the tip 970 can include an interiordelivery stem 974 that is configured to place the distal end 971 of thetip 970 in fluid communication with the one or more delivery channels orother conduits located within the handpiece assembly. For example, thedelivery stem 974 can be sized, shaped and otherwise adapted to receivefluids and/or other materials from an internal delivery channel of thehandpiece assembly.

As illustrated in FIGS. 20B and 20C, the distal end 971 of the tip 970can include an opening 982 through which fluids and/or other materialsconveyed by the delivery stem 974 may exit. As shown, the opening 982can be located at or near the center of the distal end 971 of the tip970. In other arrangements, a tip 970 can include additional stems 974and/or openings 982. In addition, the size, shape, location and/or otherdetails of the openings 982 can be different than illustrated herein.

Moreover, the distal end 971 of the tip 970 can include one or moreoutlet openings 984 through which exfoliated skin, spent serums, otherwaste liquids, fluids and other materials and/or the like can beremoved. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 20B and 20C, the tip 970includes two outlet openings 984. However, more or fewer openings can beincluded, as desired or required. In addition, some or all of the postsor other protruding members 980 can be generally hollow so that theyperform a similar function as other outlet openings 984 of the tip 970.In other embodiments, however, some or all of the protruding members 980are not hollow or do not include openings therethrough.

In some embodiments, once the distal end 971 of a tip 970 is positionedagainst the skin being treated, an enclosed space can be created betweenthe skin surface and tip, generally along the interior of a peripherallip member or other ridge. Therefore, as a vacuum or another suctionsource is generated in the handpiece assembly, exfoliated skin, spentserum, other fluids and/or other materials can be removed away from thetip 970. At the same time, the delivery stem 974 of the tip 970 and anyother conduit or space that is in fluid communication with it may alsobe subjected to a suction force. Consequently, serums, other fluidsand/or other treatment materials can be advantageously transported tothe distal end 971 of the tip 970 through one or more openings 982. Asdiscussed, the tip 970 or variations thereof can comprise anycombination of treatment elements and/or abrasive elements, as desiredor required by a particular application.

Additional details regarding tips for any embodiments of a handpieceassembly disclosed herein can be found in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 11/392,348 (filed on Mar. 29, 2006 and published as U.S. PublicationNo. 2007/0156124) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/024,504(filed on Jan. 29, 2008), the entireties of both of which are herebyincorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of a handpiece assembly 1000. Insome arrangements, the illustrated assembly 1000 may be particularlywell-suited to be used as a shower model. For example, the tip 1020 ofthe handpiece assembly 1000 can include a dried serum or other materialthat is configured to dissolve when coming in contact with water and/orother fluids. Thus, once in contact with water, the tip 1020 can beoperated to remove skin. For instance, water from a shower head can beused to dissolve the media situated on the tip 1020 of the handpieceassembly 1000. In some embodiments, the handpiece assembly 1000comprises an internal vacuum pump or other fluid transfer device (notshown) that is used to draw waste liquid and/or materials away from thetip 1010 toward one or more drains 1040. Such drains 1040 may or may notbe connected to a separate conduit or other collection device, asrequired or desired by a particular application.

With continued reference to FIG. 21 , the handpiece assembly 1000 cancomprise a main body portion 1002 that a user can grasp and manipulateduring use. In addition, the tip 1020 can be adapted to be removablypositioned onto a raised mounting portion 1010 of the handpieceassembly. In other embodiments, however, the tip 1020 attached directlyto the main body portion 1002 of the assembly 1000.

As discussed herein with reference to FIGS. 20B and 20C, the tip 1020can comprise an outer lip 1024 or other ridge member along its outerperiphery. The lip member 1024 can generally define the periphery of thedistal end of the tip 1020. In some embodiments, when the tip 1020 ispositioned against skin, the lip member 1024 inhibits or substantiallyinhibits fluids or other materials from escaping a space generallydefined between the tip 1020 and the adjacent skin surface. Further, thetip 1020 can include a plurality of protruding members 1030 positionedalong its distal end and within the interior of the lip member 1024. Asdiscussed, the protruding members 1030 can be posts or othercylindrically-shaped objects. In some embodiments, the protrudingmembers 1030 comprise relatively sharp edges, which can be configured toremove skin. The protruding members 1030 can have relatively sharpplaning blades. Further, the tip 1020 can include one or more openings1032, 1034 through which treatment fluids, exfoliated skin, other wastematerials and/or other substances may enter or exit the working surfaceof the tip 1020. The size, shape, quantity, location, spacing and/orother details of the openings 1032, 1034 can vary, as desired orrequired by a particular application or use.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including the oneillustrated in FIG. 21 , the tip of the handpiece assembly can beconfigured to rotate, pivot, tilt and/or otherwise move, as desired orrequired by a particular application.

FIG. 22 illustrates a charger or docking station 1050 which can besized, shaped and configured to receive a handpiece assembly. It will beappreciated that any other embodiments of a handpiece assembly disclosedherein can be configured to be placed and stored in such a dockingstation 1050. The station 1050 can include a cavity or other receivingarea in which one or more portions of a handpiece assembly may beselectively inserted and removed. The station 1050 can be attached to apower cord 1070 or other power source so that a rechargeable batterylocated within the handpiece assembly can be charged.

Another embodiment of a skin treatment system 1100 comprising ahandpiece assembly 1110, a base member 1130 and a waste cartridge 1140is illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24 . As with other embodiments disclosedherein, the handpiece assembly 1110 can comprise a docking area in whicha cartridge 1120 can be selectively removed or attached. In somearrangements, the handpiece assembly 1110 can be secured to a basemember 1130 using one or more clips 1116, holders or other members. Thehandpiece assembly 1110 can be placed in fluid communication with awaste canister 1140 using one or more conduits 1150.

With continued reference to FIGS. 23 and 24 , the waste canister 1140can be configured to be selectively attached to and/or removed from thebase member 1130 for emptying, cleaning and/or any other purpose. Insome embodiments, the waste canister 1140 comprises a lid 1142 or othercover member. As with any other embodiments disclosed herein, the basemember 1130 and/or the handpiece assembly 1110 can comprise one or morebuttons 1132, 1134, dials and/or other control members to regulate theoperation of the skin treatment system. In addition, the base member caninclude a recessed region 1136 can enables one or more fluid conduits1150, power cables or other members to be conveniently coiledtherearound. Further, the handpiece assembly 1110 can comprise a mainbody portion 1101 and a tip 1118 permanently or removably securedthereto.

According to another embodiment, a handpiece assembly can be configuredto be used in a shower or in other wet or high moisture conditions.Thus, in some arrangements, the handpiece assembly is waterproof and/orwater resistant. In such embodiments, the pump or other fluid transferdevice can be driven by electrical power, by water pressure (e.g., oneor more connections to running water), by pneumatic power and/or anyother method or device. It will be appreciated that such alternativemethods or devices of operating a pump or other fluid transfer devicecan be used with respect to any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Some or all of the embodiments disclosed herein can be particularlyuseful for less expensive and/or simpler microdermabrasion systems. Insome embodiments, such systems can target the home consumer market.

In any of the embodiments described and/or illustrated herein, orvariations thereof, treatment fluids and/or other materials can bedelivered to the tip of a handpiece assembly using one or more ways. Forexample, in some embodiments, serums or other substances can bedelivered through a supply canister or fluid bottle. Such serums,compositions, other fluids or substances can be pre mixed so that theyare delivered to the tip and the skin unmodified or substantiallyunmodified.

In other embodiments, serums, fluids, gels or other materials can be inthe form of a pack container dry granular material, viscous gels and/orthe like. Such packs can be mixed with water or some other fluid by auser to a desired concentration. In other embodiments, one or moretreatment materials can be impregnated or otherwise embedded into thetips of the handpiece assemblies. Thus, such materials (e.g., powers,solids, gels, etc.) can advantageously dissolve when they contact water,saline or some other liquid. In still other embodiments, the treatmentmaterials can be contained within a capsule, tablet or other enclosure.Such enclosures can be configured to dissolve when placed in water orsome other fluid. Therefore, in some embodiments, a user may be requiredto place a capsule, the contents of a pack or some other materials intoa canister and add water or other fluid before use.

In some embodiments, one or more serums or other substances can bedelivered to the treatment surface of a handpiece assembly to treat aparticular skin condition. For example, the system can be used to treatacne, dry or oily skin, fine lines, sun-damaged skin, other skindiseases or disorders and/or like.

In some embodiments, the serums, other materials and/or a combination ofsuch serums or other materials can be utilized for the treatment ofsubstantially most or all skin types. For example, such serums and/orother materials can be used when the handpiece assembly exfoliates skin.

In another embodiment, the serums, other materials and/or a combinationof such serums or other materials can be used during a follow-up (e.g.,secondary, tertiary, etc.) or finish treatment step. For example, suchserums and/or other materials can be used to hydrate the skin and/orlighten treat skin damage, either in lieu of or in addition toexfoliating skin. In such embodiments, the serums and/or other materialscan comprise anti-oxidants, hyaluronic acid and/or the like.

In yet other embodiments, the serums, other materials and/or acombination of such serums or other materials can be used to target acneor oily skin conditions. It will be appreciated that other serums, othermaterials and/or combinations of such serums or other materials can beused to target one or more types of skin conditions or treatments.Further, a particular treatment procedure can utilize one, two or moreof such serums or other materials during various treatment phases (e.g.,exfoliation, finish or polishing treatment, etc.).

In some embodiments, one or more kits can be developed that target aspecific type of user, skin condition, desired result and/or the like.For example, such a kit can comprise serums and/or other materials thattarget teenage acne. As discussed, the serums and/or other materialscontained in such kits can be in one or more different forms, such as,for example, liquids, gels, other fluids, powders, solids and/or thelike. In some embodiments, such serums and/or other materials can beconfigured for immediate use. Alternatively, a particular amount ofwater, saline or other liquids, other dilution or dissolving agentsand/or the like may need to be added to the serums and/or othermaterials to get them to a usable state.

In addition, depending on who the target user is (e.g., teenagers,adults, etc.) and/or how severe a particular condition is, theconcentration or strength of the serums and/or other materials can bevaried. For example, for younger users, a kit directed at acne treatmentcan comprise lower concentrations of serums and/or other materials. Byway of another example, kits comprising higher concentrations orstrengths of serums and/or other materials can be used to treat oilyskin or acne in adults. In another embodiment, a kit can be developed totarget users whose skin is generally typical (e.g., the users' skin isnot abnormally dry or oily, the users do not have excessive amount ofacne or scarring, etc.).

As discussed, the kits can include one, two or more different types oftreatment combinations. For example, a kit can comprise a firstcombination of serum(s) and/or other material(s) that is intended totarget the exfoliation of skin. The same kit may include a secondtreatment combination that can be used in a follow-up treatment to treatoily skin or the like. In other embodiments, however, a kit can comprisemore or fewer treatment combinations, as desired or required by aparticular skin treatment procedure.

The articles, devices, assemblies, systems and/or other items disclosedherein may be formed through any suitable means. The various methods andtechniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out theinvention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily allobjectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance withany particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in amanner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantagesas taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives oradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeabilityof various features from different embodiments disclosed herein.Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above, as well asother known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed andmatched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods inaccordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methodswhich are described and illustrated herein are not limited to the exactsequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited to thepractice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events oracts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of theevents, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.

Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certainembodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosedembodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, it is not intendedthat the invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A skin abrasion system comprising: a handpieceassembly comprising a main body portion and a tip, wherein the tip isconfigured to contact skin tissue, wherein the tip is configured to bemoved along skin tissue during use to remove at least a portion of astratum corneum of the skin, wherein the tip is configured to secure toa distal end of the main body portion; a waste canister for collectingwaste materials withdrawn from a treatment surface during a procedure,wherein the waste canister is configured to removably secure to aproximal end of the handpiece assembly, wherein the proximal end and adistal end of the handpiece assembly are located on opposite ends of themain body portion of the handpiece assembly; wherein the waste canisteris physically attached to and incorporated into the handpiece assemblywhen the waste canister is secured to the main body portion along theproximal end of the handpiece assembly, the waste canister beingconfigured to separate from the main body portion to discard wastematerials collected in the waste canister; at least one fluid deliverypassage positioned at least partially within the handpiece assembly andplacing the tip in fluid communication with a fluid source; and at leastone suction passage positioned at least partially within the handpieceassembly and placing the waste canister in fluid communication with thetip when the waste canister is secured to the handpiece assembly.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the tip is removably secured to the handpieceassembly.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the tip comprises at leastone abrasive element, wherein the at least one abrasive element isconfigured to abrade skin tissue when the handpiece assembly is movedrelative to the skin tissue.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the atleast one abrasive element comprises at least one protruding member, theat least one protruding member comprising a sharp edge.
 5. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the fluid source comprises a supply canister configuredto store a treatment fluid, and wherein the at least one deliverypassage is configured to be placed in fluid communication with thesupply canister.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the supply canisteris configured to removably secure to the handpiece assembly.
 7. Thesystem of claim 5, wherein the supply canister is configured to remainphysically separated from the handpiece assembly.
 8. The system of claim1, further comprising an electric fluid transfer device and a batteryconfigured to electrically energize the electric fluid transfer device,wherein the electric fluid transfer device is configured to help movefluids and other materials through the at least one fluid deliverypassage and/or through the at least one suction passage.
 9. The systemof claim 8, wherein the handpiece assembly is configured to bepositioned in a docking station when not in use, wherein the dockingstation is configured to recharge the battery when the handpieceassembly is positioned in the docking station.
 10. The system of claim1, wherein the handpiece assembly comprises at least one controller thatpermits a user to selectively regulate operation of the system during atreatment procedure.
 11. A skin abrasion system comprising: a handpiececomprising a tip for contacting skin tissue; and a waste canisterconfigured to removably secure to a proximal end of the handpiece, thewaste canister configured to physically attach to and incorporate intothe handpiece when the waste canister is secured to the proximal end ofthe handpiece assembly; wherein the tip is configured to remove at leasta portion of a stratum corneum of the skin during use; wherein the tipis in fluid communication with the waste canister when the wastecanister is secured to the handpiece; wherein the system is configuredto transfer a treatment material from a fluid source to the tip; whereinthe system is configured to transfer waste materials from a treatmentsurface to the waste canister for collecting waste materials during use;and wherein the waste canister is configured to separate from handpieceto discard waste materials collected in waste canister.
 12. The systemof claim 11, wherein the tip is removably secured to the handpiece. 13.The system of claim 11, wherein the tip comprises at least one abrasiveelement to abrade skin tissue when the handpiece is moved relative toskin tissue.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the at least oneabrasive element comprises at least one sharp edge.
 15. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the fluid source comprises a supply canisterconfigured to store a treatment fluid.
 16. The system of claim 15,wherein the supply canister is configured to removably secure to thehandpiece.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein the supply canister isconfigured to remain physically separated from the handpiece yet influid communication with the tip.
 18. The system of claim 11, furthercomprising an electric fluid transfer device and a battery configured toelectrically energize the electric fluid transfer device, wherein theelectric fluid transfer device is configured to help move fluids toand/or from the tip.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the handpieceis configured to be positioned in a docking station when not in use,wherein the docking station is configured to recharge the battery whenthe handpiece is positioned in the docking station.
 20. The system ofclaim 11, wherein the handpiece comprises at least one controller thatpermits a user to selectively regulate operation of the system during atreatment procedure.
 21. A skin abrasion system comprising: a handpiececomprising a tip for contacting skin tissue; and a waste canisterconfigured to removably secure along a proximal end of the handpiece,the waste canister configured to physically attach to and incorporateinto the handpiece when the waste canister is secured to the proximalend of the handpiece assembly; wherein the tip is in fluid communicationwith the waste canister when the waste canister is secured to thehandpiece; and wherein the system is configured to transfer wastematerials from a treatment surface to the waste canister for collectingwaste materials during use.
 22. The system of claim 21, wherein thesystem is configured to transfer a treatment material from a fluidsource to the tip during use.